Posted 06 Sep 2010

Gap year travellers heading to New Zealand must visit the city of Christchurch, one writer has insisted.

In an article for the South Wales Echo, a correspondent for the newspaper said the South Island metropolis offers “stunning” botanical gardens.

It is also home to the New Brighton Pier, which is a perfect place for beach lovers and boasts a wide variety of restaurants.

“You’ll also find a range of other activities such as orienteering and cycling,” the article states. “Get there by taking the No. 51 bus from the city centre.”

Other highlights of a visit to Christchurch include the International Antarctic Centre, where travellers can get up close to the Little Blue penguins, the writer claimed.

The city also has a lot to offer shopaholics, with numerous malls and “sophisticated” boutiques.

Christchurch is the second-largest urban area in New Zealand, the first being Auckland on the country’s North Island.

Category: Australasia